Ford's Mercury division has produced a range of entry level cars with luxury features since its inception in 1938. The Mercury Marauder was not the most successful model launched by the brand, but it has created a culture of devoted fans.

The Marauder name was attached to three different models over the decades. Each model combined careful styling with mechanical features designed for power. Cars in the Marauder line were some of the most luxurious cars on the road at the time. The limited production numbers of all three generations can make it difficult to locate a genuine model now.

First generation

Mercury's first version of the Marauder began production in 1963. It was a full-sized sports car and shared many features with the Ford Galaxie. Two doors were framed with triangular vent windows to the rear. The roof line was slanted to the front of the car. This increased the aerodynamics of the car. Mercury created this new roof line to encourage NASCAR use of this model. A number of important races were won between 1963 and 1964 with this and other Mercury cars. Three sizes of the classic Thunderbird V8 were used in this model, making it easy for drivers to find a combination of luxury and speed. A four door version was introduced during 1964. The company discontinued production during 1965.

Second generation

The second generation was released in 1969 after a comprehensive redesign of the exterior. The front end of the new Marauder resembled the Marquis model, but the rear end was completely unique. Sleek lines and curves made it more attractive than other options in the luxury market that year. The rear wheels were covered with fender skirts and the back window was deeply inset. Despite the stunning look of the car, sales were lackluster. Mercury had a hard time moving this model because cost-conscious drivers didn't want powerful sports cars in such high demand. Only 15,000 were built during 1969 and that number dropped by half in 1970. The Marauder disappeared again after that year and wouldn't resurface for over three decades.

Third generation

The third iteration of the Mercury Marauder arrived in 2003. The popularity of the Ford Crown Victoria caused Mercury to release a slightly more powerful version. The Marauder shared the Panther base with the Crown Victoria, but had improved trim and a more attractive exterior. Genuine leather interiors were matched with silver aluminum accents. A 302 horsepower Modular engine provided plenty of power. No manual transmission options were available.

Only one model year of this latest Marauder release was completed and the car stopped production in the beginning of 2004 when sales for the previous year failed to meet expectations. Under 12,000 vehicles were produced before the model was closed again. The entire Mercury brand was absorbed by Ford in 2011, making it unlikely that a fourth generation of Marauders will ever meet the road. Models from all three generations are considered collectible because of their limited release numbers.